Youth Performers Prep Musical Preview

None of them were alive yet when it first debuted nearly 25 years ago at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego, but the 35 actors, musicians and production crew of Marin Youth Performers, mostly from Mill Valley, are set to unveil their rendition of the musical In the Woods at two preview shows this weekend at 142 Throckmorton Theatre.

The play begins a six-show run Aug. 27 at 7:30pm, concluding with a matinee show Sept. 5 at 2pm.

In the Woods is a "fractured fairy tale" featuring a baker and his wife who learn they've been cursed with childlessness by the witch next door. They embark on a quest for the special objects required to break the spell by swindling, lying to and stealing from Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel and Jack (the one who climbed the beanstalk). The consequences of their actions bring disastrous results.

"What begins as a lively, irreverent fantasy in the style of The Princess Bride becomes a moving lesson about community responsibility and the stories we tell our children," the Throckmorton said in a statement.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, In the Woods premiered on Broadway in 1987. It garnered plenty of acclaim and multiple Tony Awards, including for Bernadette Peters' performance as the Witch and Joanna Gleason's portrayal of the Baker's Wife.

The Marin Youth Performers' rendition is directed by Joan Deamer, with musical direction from Jessica Stewart and choreography by June Cooperman. The group, the youth division of 142 Throckmorton, includes an entire cast, orchestra and production team of 14 to 20 year-olds. Marin Youth Performers was founded in August 2008.

The preview shows are Friday at 7:30pm and Saturday at 2pm. Tickets are $18 General Admission, $14 Students, $30 Reserved Seating and can be purchased by calling the box office at 415.383.9600 or 142 Throckmorton Theatre Web site.